Pumpkin Patch Exploration
Farm to School programs play a crucial role in connecting students with their local food while providing a hands-on approach to learning. These immersive experiences aim to enhance children’s understanding of where their food comes from, promote healthy eating habits, and engage them in the seasonal wonders of agriculture. One of the Farm to School highlights during October and Farm to School month was the exploration of pumpkins with preschool students at Frederick County Public Schools.
Preschool students at Lincoln Elementary School learn about the parts of a pumpkin plant.
Students rotated immersive learning stations in small groups exploring pumpkins!
Pumpkin Life Cycle: Preschoolers learned about the fascinating life cycle of a pumpkin from seed to sprout, vine to fruit, and ultimately the pumpkin they see at the market. They got to see first hand what a pumpkin vine looks like identifying the leaf, tendrils, stem, and flower.
Sensory Exploration: Students examined the inside of a pumpkin discovering stringy pulp and counting seeds. They got to look, touch, smell, and squish the inside of a pumpkin.
Fine Motor Skills: At the sensory table they identified the variety of shapes and colors associated with pumpkins and gourds. They were able to practice fine motor skills by picking up seeds and feeling various textures.
Healthy Eating: Youth were given the opportunity to taste pumpkin parfaits and share what they thought. Pumpkin parfaits are made with yogurt, pumpkin, and pumpkin spice. A tasty nutritious snack providing calcium, potassium, iron, Vitamin D, and dietary fiber. 74% of students like pumpkin parfaits.
Each student got a pick a pumpkin to take home with them that was locally grown and sourced from Glade Link Farms.
By exploring the pumpkin life cycle, enjoying hands-on experience, and engaging in creative sensory, and educational activities, preschools are set on a path of learning and discovery that extends far beyond the season. Farm to School pumpkin lessons light up young minds and plant the seeds for a lifelong love of learning and appreciation for healthy foods.